Nadine Jeannette Barr

Nadine Jeannette Barr was born to Verden and Ina Ray (Brown) Johnson, on June 23, 1940, at Pontiac, and departed this life Jan. 30, 2026, at her home near Hartville. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Alva, of 58 years, her only son, David Barr; her brothers, Stanley Johnson and Lawrence Johnson; her sisters, Mabel Johnson Gregory, Mary June Johnson Nelson and Blanche Johnson Allcorn; her brothers-in-law, L.D. Garland and Charles Nelson; and her sister-in-law, Joella Garland. Nadine is survived by daughter-in-law, Linda Barr; sister-in-law, Freda Barr; special nieces, Elaine Murr and Julie Kelly; nephews, cousins and friends.
Nadine married Alva Barr June 1, 1958, after graduating high school at Mansfield. She and Alva lived in Springfield for 19 years where she had the opportunity to attend Southwest Missouri State Univeristy and obtain her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She taught elementary school at Alice Pittman in Springfield for nine years. During that time, she obtained her master’s degree with an emphasis in special education and acquired her reading certification. Nadine took a few years off after moving to the farm, and she then helped Alva at the farm for a few years until the pull of school led her to Hartville/Grovespring schools. She acquired special education certification during this period and all three permanent certifications were lifetime certificates. Nadine loved school, whether she was a student or a teacher. She retired at age 70 after teaching 33 years. Nadine accepted Christ as her Savior at the age of 13. She attended church throughout her life and played the piano for both Little Creek Church and First Baptist Church in Hartville. She loved her family, school, reading and music. She was heartbroken at the loss of her son, David, and husband, Alva. She was always happy to see her former students. We celebrate her life and will always cherish the many memories spent together. Visitation and funeral service for Nadine Barr were held Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at Little Creek Baptist Church, Hartville, with Pastor Matthew DeCocq and the Rev. Russell McDaris officiating. Nadine was buried at Little Creek Cemetery, Hartville, under the direction of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Hartville. Memorial contributions may be made to Little Creek Cemetery in care of the funeral home.